A Survey of Skills and Qualifications Desired by Employers of Entry-Level Museum Librarians.

Duerler, Diana J.

Museum librarians occupy positions in a wide variety of organizations, including art galleries, colleges and universities, government agencies, and historical societies. This study investigated what qualifications and attributes employers wish entry-level museum librarians to possess as they begin their library careers. A questionnaire was mailed to 169 museum library directors, and 93 (57.4%) usable questionnaires were returned. The survey included questions about education, training, and personal characteristics. According to the data, 94.6% of museum library directors want new museum librarians to have at least one Master's degree, preferably in library science. As for the subject of the undergraduate degree, 78.5% preferred art history. Often a proficiency in foreign languages and a second subject specialty are vital as well, along with problem-solving and online searching skills and prior library experience. Personal qualities rated highest were reliability, approachability, intelligence, communication skills, and a strong service orientation. Sample questionnaires are appended, and 15 tables illustrate the data. (Contains 200 references.) (BEW)